Held Captive: The Story of Herriges' Family of Phildelphia a Biography

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A true story, a wealth family fall from grace in 1870's Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.   Learn more or read a sample at: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1616784

Take Surveys, Earn Cash and Gift Cards up to $100 at a Time

Take Surveys, earn cash $50 or $100 and gift cards from $15 up to $100.

Over several years, I have earned hundreds of dollars in cash and gift cards.  This is an excellent way to get some extra spending money or to give a way as a gift.  Gift cards can be obtained and used at the following retailers: Adidas, Amazon, Apple, Best Buy, Doordash, GameStop, Google Play Store, Sephora, UberEats, Visa, Walmart, Xbox, eBay, CVS Pharmacy, Instacart, Playstation, Walmart, and Nintendo.

Most of the surveys can be done with your smartphone.  The more surveys you do, the more points you can earn and the faster you can cash out.

I will earn points when you apply and complete some surveys.

Senior Work At Home Training Course with Free Resource List

Seniors Work at Home Online Resources

 

Free Online Training Courses.  Take your work at home business to the next level with these specialized free courses.  Or select from thousands of other free courses by clicking here.  Average courses are 1 to 3 hours in length.

Make Money Online Training

Virtual Assistant Training

Customer Service

Technical Support 

Freelancing

Blogging

Translation

Business Consulting

Introduction to Bookkeeping

  Professional Bookkeeping 1

  Professional Bookkeeping 2

Tax Accounting, Fundamentals

  Diploma in Financial Accounting (10 - 15 hours) 

  Free Accounting Software (Linux, Windows & Mac)

Beginners Guide To Selling on eBay

Digital Marketing Strategies

  Using AI In Digital Marketing

Using AI In Your Business

 

Free courses, but an Accredited Diplomas may be purchased after you have completed and passed your courses and final exams.

A small commission may be earned by clicking on these links and taking these courses.

 

History of the Dia de los Muteros (Day of the Dead) Holiday

 This article contains links, a small commission may be earned by making a purchase.

Billy Manus | September 14, 2024

 

4 Pcs Halloween Skull Ceramic to Paint Unpainted DIY,includes paint and brushes

Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is a Mexican holiday that honors deceased loved ones. Its history is a blend of ancient indigenous traditions and Catholicism, tracing back to Aztec, Maya, and other pre-Columbian civilizations. These cultures believed in an afterlife where the dead lived on, and death was seen as a natural part of life, not something to be feared. When Spanish colonizers arrived in the 16th century, they introduced Catholicism, and Día de los Muertos eventually merged with the Catholic holidays of All Saints' Day (November 1) and All Souls' Day (November 2).

How the Dead Are Remembered

Día de los Muertos is a joyful celebration, not a mournful one. Families remember their loved ones through various traditions:

• Ofrendas (Altars): Families create altars in their homes or at cemeteries, placing photos, candles, marigolds (cempasúchil flowers), favorite foods, drinks, and personal items of the deceased. The ofrenda is central to the celebration, welcoming spirits back to the world of the living.
• Sugar Skulls (Calaveras): Decorated sugar skulls with the names of the deceased are placed on altars or eaten, symbolizing death’s sweetness and the idea that life and death coexist.
• Catrinas: The skeleton figure dressed in fancy clothes, known as "La Catrina," is an iconic symbol that humorously portrays death as something elegant and inevitable.
• Cemeteries: People often clean and decorate graves with candles, flowers, and offerings, spending time there in remembrance and sometimes staying overnight.

Where It Is Celebrated

• Mexico: The holiday is most widely celebrated here, particularly in regions like Oaxaca and Michoacán. Some towns, like Pátzcuaro, are famous for their festivities.
• United States: Due to its large Mexican-American population, Día de los Muertos is widely celebrated in cities like Los Angeles, San Antonio, and Chicago.
• Latin America and Beyond: The tradition has spread to other parts of Latin America and even globally, particularly in areas with a significant Mexican population.

6 Pieces Day of The Dead Decorations 3 Ft Dia De Los Muertos Hanging Sugar Skull Decors Mexican

Can Anyone Join?

Yes! While it is deeply rooted in Mexican culture, people from other cultures are welcome to participate, as long as they do so with respect for the traditions and customs. Many non-Mexican people now join the celebrations, especially in places like the U.S., where the holiday has gained wider recognition.

List of Products Used in the Celebration

• Marigolds (Cempasúchil): These bright orange flowers are believed to guide spirits back to the world of the living with their scent.
• Sugar Skulls (Calaveras): Colorfully decorated skulls made of sugar or chocolate.
• Pan de Muerto (Bread of the Dead): A special sweet bread often shaped like bones, eaten during the festivities.
• Candles: Used to light the way for the spirits to find their way home.
• Copal Incense: Burned to purify and draw spirits to the ofrenda.
• Photos of the Deceased: Placed on the ofrenda to honor loved ones.
• Food Offerings: Favorites of the deceased, such as tamales, mole, or tequila.
• Paper Marigolds and Papel Picado (Cut Paper): Colorful paper decorations symbolizing the fragility of life.
• La Catrina Figurines: Skeleton dolls or figurines dressed in elaborate clothing.
• Altars (Ofrendas): The structure where all of the offerings and decorations are placed.

 

 

Day of the Dead Decor Altar De Ofrendas Dia de Muertos, table runner,marigolds, Papel Picado

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Día de los Muertos is a beautiful celebration of life and death, focused on remembering loved ones with joy and respect.

Products so you can celebrate the Day of the Dead

Sling Bag Cross body Backpack Hiking Travel Day pack Chest Bag Light  weight Shoulder Bag For Women Men

Festive Sugar Skulls Decorated Double Old Fashioned Tumbler Glasses,13.5-Ounce, Gift Boxed Set of 2

Floral Sugar Skull Necklace

Wooden embossing rolling pin with SUGAR SKULLS pattern

Day of The Dead Sugar Skull Puzzles for Adults 1000 Pieces, Halloween Puzzles 1000 Piece

Solar Generators: What They Are, How They Work, and How to Choose the Right One for Your Needs

Solar Generators: What They Are, How They Work, and How to Choose the Right One for Your Needs

Staff | August 29, 2024 | A small commission may be earned by clicking on the links


As concerns about climate change and energy independence grow, solar generators have emerged as a popular alternative to traditional, fuel-powered generators. Offering clean, renewable energy, solar generators provide a sustainable solution for powering homes, devices, and essential appliances during emergencies or off-grid living. This article explores what solar generators are, their capabilities, how they work, and how to choose the right one to suit your needs.

1. What Are Solar Generators?

Solar generators are portable power systems that convert sunlight into electrical energy through the use of solar panels. Unlike traditional generators that rely on gasoline or diesel fuel, solar generators harness energy from the sun, store it in batteries, and make it available for use through an inverter that converts the stored DC power into usable AC power.

Vtoman 1500w Solar Generator

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Key Components:
- Solar Panels: Capture sunlight and convert it into electricity.
- Battery Storage: Stores the energy generated by the solar panels for use when needed.
- Inverter: Converts DC (direct current) power from the batteries into AC (alternating current) power, which is what most household appliances use.
- Charge Controller: Regulates the flow of electricity from the solar panels to the batteries, preventing overcharging and optimizing energy efficiency.

Unlike fuel-powered generators, solar generators are quiet, require minimal maintenance, and do not produce harmful emissions, making them a greener and more environmentally friendly option.

2. What Can Solar Generators Do?

Solar generators are versatile and can be used for a wide range of applications, from powering small electronic devices to providing emergency backup power for homes. Some common uses include:
- Powering Appliances: Small appliances such as fans, lights, and mini-fridges can be easily powered by solar generators.
- Emergency Backup: Solar generators can provide power during outages, ensuring that essential devices like phones, medical equipment, and communication tools remain functional.
- Camping and Outdoor Activities: Portable solar generators are ideal for camping, RV trips, and outdoor events, where they can charge phones, run small kitchen appliances, and keep lights on.
- Off-Grid Living: For those living off the grid or in remote areas, solar generators offer a reliable source of power without dependence on the grid or fuel supply.

Limitations:
While solar generators are highly useful, they have limitations. Most solar generators have a lower power output compared to traditional generators, which may limit their ability to run high-demand appliances like air conditioners, large refrigerators, or heavy-duty power tools.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vtoman Solar Generator 600 watts

3. How Are Solar Generators Charged?

Solar generators can be charged in several ways:
- Solar Panels: The primary method of charging, solar panels capture sunlight and convert it into electricity. Charging time depends on the amount of sunlight, the size of the panels, and the capacity of the battery.
- Wall Outlets: Solar generators can also be charged using standard AC outlets when solar power is not available. This method is faster but relies on grid electricity.
- Car Adapters: Some models can be charged via a car’s 12V outlet, providing an alternative charging option while on the go.

Charging Efficiency Tips:
- Position solar panels in direct sunlight and avoid shaded areas.
- Use high-efficiency panels and ensure they are clean and free from debris.
- Monitor charging status and manage power usage to maximize battery life.

4. Can Solar Generators Run a Whole House in Case of a Power Outage?

Yes, but you have to figure out how many watts you plan to use in case of a power outage. Larger sized solar generators are capable of powering your entire house, but they are also more expensive. Battery capacity and your overall power needs are also important factors to consider.

To run a whole house, you need to calculate the total wattage of all essential appliances you plan to use simultaneously. High-demand appliances like HVAC systems, water heaters, and large refrigerators may exceed the capacity of smaller solar generators.

In which case, you may want to have an emergency 12v or mini refrigerator, window AC units which typically use 300 watts or less, and solar water heating bags.

Practical Considerations:
- Prioritize essential appliances during an outage, such as lights, medical devices, and communication equipment.
- Use energy-efficient devices to extend battery life.
- Be realistic about the limitations—solar generators may not be able to power all appliances continuously, especially high-consumption ones.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ecoflow Home Battery Backup 7200 watts

5. How to Size a Solar Generator to Suit Your Needs

Selecting the right size solar generator involves calculating your power needs and understanding the generator’s capacity.

Calculating how many watts you need during a power outage is crucial when sizing a solar generator to ensure it can handle your essential appliances and devices. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you determine your wattage requirements:

Step 1: List Essential Devices and Appliances

Start by making a list of all the devices and appliances you consider essential during a power outage. This might include:

- Refrigerator or freezer
- Lights (LED bulbs)
- Fans
- Phone chargers
- Laptop or computer
- Medical equipment (e.g., CPAP machine)
- Communication devices (e.g., radio)
- Small kitchen appliances (e.g., microwave, coffee maker)

Step 2: Find Wattage for Each Device

For each device or appliance on your list, you need to determine how much power it consumes, measured in watts (W). You can usually find this information on:

- Labels on the device: Check the back or bottom of the appliance.
- User manuals: Specifications are often listed in the manual.
- Online search: Look up the model number online for power specifications.

If the label shows amps (A) and volts (V) instead of watts, you can calculate the wattage using the formula:

Watts (W) = Amps (A) X Volts (V)

For example, if a device uses 2 amps at 120 volts, the power consumption is:

2 / Amps X 120 V = 240 W

Step 3: Calculate Total Wattage

Add up the wattage of all the devices you plan to use simultaneously. This will give you the total continuous wattage required. For example:

- Refrigerator: 150 W
- LED light bulbs (4 bulbs): 10 W each = 40 W
- Fan: 50 W
- Laptop: 60 W
- Phone charger: 10 W

Total Wattage Needed:

150 W + 40 W + 50 W + 60 W + 10 W = 310 W

Step 4: Account for Surge Wattage

Some appliances, like refrigerators, air conditioners, or tools with motors, require extra power to start up, known as surge or peak wattage. Check if any of your devices have a surge requirement, which is often 1.5 to 2 times the running wattage.

For example, if your refrigerator needs a surge wattage of 300 W but runs at 150 W continuously, add the higher number for your calculations if it starts during the outage.

Step 5: Factor in Usage Duration and Battery Capacity

While wattage determines the power output, you’ll also need to consider how long you plan to run each device, which affects battery capacity requirements (measured in watt-hours, Wh).

Calculate Watt-Hours:
- Multiply the wattage of each device by the number of hours you plan to run it.

For example, if you plan to run the 150 W refrigerator for 4 hours:

150 W X 4 hours = 600 Wh

Repeat this for each device and add the watt-hours to estimate the total energy requirement for the period you need backup power.

Step 6: Choose a Solar Generator with Adequate Capacity

Choose a solar generator with a continuous wattage rating that matches or exceeds your total wattage calculation, and ensure the battery capacity (in watt-hours) can support the total watt-hour needs for the desired duration of the outage.

Example Calculation for a Power Outage Scenario:

- Devices: Refrigerator (150 W), 4 LED bulbs (40 W), fan (50 W), laptop (60 W), phone charger (10 W)
- Total Wattage: 310 W (plus any surge wattage if applicable)
- Energy Requirement: If the devices run for 4 hours:

(150 \ W \times 4 \ hours) + (40 \ W \times 4 \ hours) + (50 \ W \times 4 \ hours) + (60 \ W \times 4 \ hours) + (10 \ W \times 4 \ hours) = 1,240 \ Wh

To cover this scenario, you would need a solar generator with a continuous output of at least 310 W and a battery capacity of at least 1,240 Wh.

By following these steps, you can accurately determine the wattage and energy capacity needed for your solar generator during a power outage, ensuring you have enough power to keep your essential devices running smoothly.

Factors to Consider:
- Peak vs. Continuous Power: Some appliances require a surge of power to start (peak power) but operate on lower power (continuous power).
- Battery Storage and Inverter Size: Ensure that the battery can store enough energy and that the inverter can handle the peak power demand.

Tips for Choosing the Right Size:
- Opt for a slightly larger generator than your calculated needs to allow for unforeseen power requirements.
- Consider usage scenarios, such as emergency backup versus recreational use, as this impacts the size and capacity needed.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ecoflow Solar Generator 4000 watts

6. Additional Features to Consider When Choosing a Solar Generator

When selecting a solar generator, look beyond size and capacity. Consider the following features:

- Portability: For camping or mobile use, choose a lightweight and easy-to-carry model.
- Expandability: Some generators allow for additional solar panels or battery expansion, providing flexibility as your power needs grow.
- Durability and Warranty: Look for robust construction and good warranty terms, especially if you plan to use the generator in rugged or outdoor conditions.
- Cost vs. Value: Evaluate the cost against the features and performance. While initial costs can be high, long-term savings on fuel and maintenance can offset the investment.

7. Pros and Cons of Solar Generators

Advantages:
- Eco-Friendly: Solar generators produce no emissions and use renewable energy.
- Quiet Operation: They run silently, unlike noisy fuel-powered generators.
- Low Maintenance: With fewer moving parts, solar generators require less upkeep.

Disadvantages:
- High Initial Cost: Solar generators can be expensive upfront.
- Charging Time: Charging can be slow, especially during cloudy weather or limited daylight hours.
- Dependency on Sunlight: Performance depends on weather and location, making them less reliable in consistently overcast areas.

Conclusion

Solar generators offer a clean, quiet, and sustainable solution for powering essential devices and providing backup energy during emergencies. By understanding your power needs and carefully selecting the right generator, you can enjoy the benefits of renewable energy while reducing your carbon footprint. Whether for home backup, camping, or off-grid living, solar generators are a viable alternative to traditional power sources, providing independence and peace of mind.

Solar Generators to Consider:

 

 

 

 

 

 

FlashFish Solar Generator 200 watts

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bluetti Portable Power Station 268 watts

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ECO-WORTHY 84Wh Portable Power Station

National Public Data 2.9 Billion Personal Data Records Breach, Are You Included?

Staff | August 26, 2024

The recent data breach at the National Public Data (NPD) agency is a stark reminder of the importance of data security and privacy. The breach exposed a staggering 2.9 billion records, including names, addresses, Social Security numbers, and other sensitive information. This massive leak has far-reaching implications for individuals and businesses alike.

What happened?

The NPD data breach is believed to have occurred due to a hacking incident. The agency has not yet released specific details about how the hackers gained access to its systems or what information was stolen. However, the sheer scale of the breach is unprecedented and has raised serious concerns about the agency's security measures.

Check to see if you are involved? 

• NPD.pentester.com — Only requires people to submit their first name, last name, state and birth year.

• NPDBreach.com — People can search for their information using their full name and zip code, or phone number. (they do ask for your SSN, don't enter it)
  

What are the risks?

The exposure of personal information can have serious consequences. Individuals may be at risk of identity theft, fraud, and other financial crimes. Hackers can use stolen information to open new accounts, apply for loans, and even file fraudulent tax returns. Businesses may also be affected by the breach, as they may need to spend time and resources to mitigate the damage and protect their customers' data.

What can you do to protect yourself?

In the wake of the NPD data breach, it is more important than ever to take steps to protect your personal information. Here are some tips:

• Monitor your accounts. Regularly check your bank statements, credit reports, and other financial records for signs of unauthorized activity.
• Change your passwords. Create strong, unique passwords for all of your online accounts, and avoid using the same password for multiple sites.  
• Be cautious about clicking on links. Do not click on links in unsolicited emails or text messages, as they may lead to malicious websites.
• Use a reputable antivirus software. Keep your computer and mobile devices up-to-date with the latest security patches.
• Consider a credit freeze. A credit freeze can help prevent unauthorized individuals from opening new accounts in your name.
• Opt out of data sharing. Many companies collect and share personal information. You may be able to opt out of these practices by contacting the companies directly or by using tools like the National Do Not Call Registry.

How can you opt out of data collection?

If you are concerned about the collection and sharing of your personal information, you can take steps to opt out. Here are some resources:

• Federal Trade Commission (FTC): The FTC provides information on how to protect your privacy and opt out of telemarketing calls and direct mail solicitations.
• National Do Not Call Registry: This registry allows you to register your phone number to stop unwanted telemarketing calls.
• Data Broker Opt-Out Services: Several companies offer services that allow you to opt out of data broker networks.

The NPD data breach is a major setback for data security and privacy. It is a reminder that individuals and businesses need to be vigilant about protecting their personal information. By taking the steps outlined above, you can help reduce your risk of becoming a victim of identity theft or fraud.

Beware of Fake Forever Stamps

Using Fake Postage Stamps Can Get You In Trouble!

 7/2/2024 | Staff

A small commission may be earned by clicking on the links in this article.

 

 

Text: Under a black light, you can see: The (top) row glows under the black light meaning that these stamps are authentic.  The (bottom) row does not glow under the black light, this stamp is fake.  It only takes a few seconds to shine a black light over postage stamps.

The rise of counterfeit postage stamps if flooding the market  and driving up the price of real postage stamps.  The current cost of one forever stamp is $0.68 with the USPS asking Congress to raise prices to $0.73, which will take effect on July 14, 2024.

Detecting fake Forever Stamps in the United States can be done through several methods, ranging from simple visual checks to more technical approaches. Here are some easy ways to identify counterfeit stamps:
 

UV Light Detection
- Genuine Stamps: Real Forever Stamps typically have security features that are visible under UV light. They may show specific patterns or colors that fluoresce.
- Fake Stamps: Counterfeit stamps may not have these features or may show inconsistent or incorrect patterns under UV light.

51 LED UV Black Light (this is the on I personally use) 
 

Coloration and Printing Quality
- Genuine Stamps: Real Forever Stamps have high-quality printing, with sharp and clear images. The colors are consistent and vibrant.
- Fake Stamps: Counterfeit stamps often have blurry images, poor printing quality, and inconsistent colors. The details might look smudged or fuzzy.

Comparison with Known Genuine Stamps
- Genuine Stamps: Compare the suspected stamp with a known genuine stamp. Look for any differences in color, design, and overall quality.
- Fake Stamps: Even small discrepancies can indicate a counterfeit.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Text: Do these stamps look the same quiz.

Price and Source
- Genuine Stamps: Always buy stamps from reputable sources, such as the United States Postal Service (USPS) offices, their official website, or authorized retailers.  Unless they USPS is working with its shipping partners, stamps are never placed on sale.
- Fake Stamps: If a deal seems too good to be true (e.g., a large quantity of Forever Stamps being sold at a significantly reduced price), it might be a scam.

Paper Quality (can be harder to detect)
- Genuine Stamps: The paper used for real stamps is usually of high quality and has a certain feel to it. It’s often thicker and has a more professional finish.
- Fake Stamps: Counterfeit stamps may use cheaper, thinner paper. They might feel different to the touch, often less substantial.
 

Perforations and Die Cuts
- Genuine Stamps: The perforations and die cuts on authentic stamps are precise and uniform. The edges should be clean and consistent.
- Fake Stamps: Counterfeit stamps might have irregular or uneven perforations. The edges may look rough or poorly cut.

Stamp Perforation Gauge 

You can use the USPS website itself to see how the perforations and die cuts should look like.
 

Design and Fonts
- Genuine Stamps: The design elements and fonts on real stamps are consistent and follow specific standards set by USPS. There should be no spelling errors or inconsistencies in the design.
- Fake Stamps: Counterfeit stamps may have design flaws, incorrect fonts, or misspellings.

Using these methods can help you detect fake Forever Stamps easily and protect yourself from fraud. If in doubt, consulting with USPS or a philatelic expert can provide further assurance. 

Where Are Your Stamps Coming From?

The United States Postal Service (USPS) prints its postage stamps domestically within the United States. The USPS has stringent quality control measures and security protocols to ensure the authenticity and integrity of its postage stamps, which are better managed within the country. Historically, the Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) and private printing contractors, such as Banknote Corporation of America and Sennett Security Products, have been responsible for printing U.S. postage stamps. These entities are all based in the United States.

There are no known or official instances of the USPS outsourcing the printing of its stamps to other countries. The production process is closely monitored to prevent counterfeiting and to maintain the high standards required for postage stamps.

If you order postage stamps online and the stamps are coming from China, they are fake and you've been scammed.  Look for US postage labels over Chinese shipping labels.  Extended weight times for receiving postage. Tracking that shows that your shipment of postage stamps started in China or some other country.

If you come across information suggesting that USPS stamps are being printed outside the United States, it would likely be incorrect or misleading. Always verify such information with official USPS sources or trusted philatelic organizations.

You Could be in Serious Trouble for Passing Fake Stamps

Using or buying fake postage stamps in the United States is illegal and subject to federal laws. Here are key points regarding the legal consequences:
 

Mail Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1341)
- Definition: Using counterfeit stamps to send mail can be considered mail fraud. This involves using the postal system to execute a scheme to defraud.
- Penalties: Mail fraud is punishable by fines and/or imprisonment for up to 20 years. If the fraud affects a financial institution, the prison term can extend to 30 years, and fines can be increased.
 

Counterfeiting and Forgery (18 U.S.C. § 501)
- Definition: Counterfeiting postage stamps falls under counterfeiting and forgery laws. This includes producing, possessing, or using fake stamps.
- Penalties: Violations can result in fines and/or imprisonment for up to 5 years.
 

Theft of Postal Service Property (18 U.S.C. § 1707)
- Definition: This law covers the unauthorized possession of postal property, including counterfeit postage stamps.
- Penalties: Penalties include fines and/or imprisonment for up to 3 years.
 

Civil Penalties
- Definition: Besides criminal penalties, using or buying counterfeit stamps can lead to civil penalties, including fines and restitution to the USPS for lost revenue.
- Penalties: The amount varies depending on the extent of the fraud and the financial impact on the USPS.

Prosecution by USPS Office of Inspector General (OIG)
- Definition: The USPS OIG investigates mail fraud and counterfeit postage stamp cases. They can pursue both criminal and civil charges.
- Penalties: Depending on the investigation findings, the OIG can refer cases for prosecution, resulting in the penalties mentioned above.
 

Denial of Service
- Definition: If counterfeit stamps are detected, the USPS may refuse to deliver the mail and can return it to the sender marked as unpaid.
- Penalties: The sender may incur additional postage fees or fines.
 

Practical Tips to Avoid Legal Issues:

 
1. Buy from Authorized Sources: Purchase stamps directly from USPS offices, their official website, or authorized retailers.

2. Verify Authenticity: Use the methods mentioned earlier to verify the authenticity of stamps before using them. A UV light works the best, is the easiest to use and lets you know right away.

3. Report Suspicions: If you suspect you've received counterfeit stamps, report it to the USPS or the USPS Office of Inspector General.

4. Use a magnifying glass to spot discrepancies between real and fake stamps.

10X Magnifying Glass with Light and Stand

Understanding and adhering to these laws can help avoid severe legal consequences associated with counterfeit postage stamps.

Other Resources (click on the links below)

USPIS Counterfeit Stamps

Identify Counterfeit Postage 

Stamp Frauds

If you find USPS postage stamp listings on Wish.com or Shein these are fake stamps. Listings on eBay may or may not be fake, but if the deal is too good to be true, then they are likely fake.

Simple UV Light Test, if in doubt if stamps are real or fake, simply as the seller to make a short video shining a black light over the stamps.  Just like in the images, if the stamps shine bright white, they are fake and don't' buy them. 

Report Sellers of Fake Stamps

Report Directly at USPIS: PostageFraudReporting@uspis.gov

Or visit: https://www.uspis.gov/report

 

Gallery

Images from: Our Mail, eBay, Wish.com, Shein USA.